Mandate the Display of Mental Health Crisis and Support Hotlines in Minnesota High School Restrooms

 

The purpose of this act is to ensure that all Minnesota high school students have immediate, free, and discreet access

to mental health crisis resources and support services in a private setting where they are likely to seek help without

fear of judgment or public scrutiny.

 

Mental health challenges among teenagers are increasing, and many students hesitate to seek help due to stigma or lack

of knowledge about available resources. Placing standardized, easily readable signage in private spaces, such as high

school restrooms, provides a crucial, non-intrusive avenue for students to obtain confidential, life-saving support

during times of crisis.

 

"High School" means any public or charter school facility, or private school receiving state funding, that serves

students in grades 9 through 12 within the State of Minnesota.

Subdivision 2. CRISIS HOTLINE. "Crisis Hotline" means a free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week telephone or text service providing

immediate, confidential counseling by trained professionals, including, but not limited to, the 988 Suicide & Crisis

Lifeline and the Crisis Text Line.

Subdivision 3. SIGNAGE. "Signage" means a notice, printed on paper at least 8.5 by 11 inches, that clearly and legibly

displays the telephone number and text contact information for at least two separate Crisis Hotlines, and which is

resistant to easy removal or damage.

 

The Minnesota Department of Education shall cover the costs associated with the design, initial printing, and

distribution of the mandated Signage to all High Schools using funds already allocated for student health and wellness

initiatives, as specified in Minnesota Statutes, Section 121A.19. No new appropriation is required for the

implementation of this act

 

ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY. The Department of Education shall be responsible for the enforcement of this act.

Subdivision 2. NON-COMPLIANCE. If a High School is found to be non-compliant with the installation and maintenance

requirements of this act during a routine school safety inspection, the Department of Education shall issue a written

notice of warning and provide 60 days to remedy the non-compliance.

Subdivision 3. PENALTY. If a High School remains non-compliant beyond the 60-day remedy period, the school shall be

ineligible for state discretionary grants related to student mental health for one full academic year.

 

This act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.